The Beginning:

• In 1956, Mr. Paul Manekshaw, a Rotarian from India, came to Kenya. Facing racial discrimination, he sought a non-discriminatory, non-political service club.

• He contacted Lion Peter Keable in Cape Town, leading to the formation of the Lions Club of Nairobi Host in December 1958.

Expansion:

• The first Lions Club in Uganda, Kampala Host, was chartered on October 11, 1959.

• The Provisional Lions District 411, including Kenya and Uganda, was formed in 1959. Lion J.D. Byramjee was the first Provisional District Governor.

Growth in the 1960s:

• Lions Club of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, was established in January 1962.

• Lions Clubs spread to Ethiopia and Seychelles.

Division into Districts:

• By the early 2000s, District 411 was divided due to increased numbers. District 411A included Kenya, Ethiopia, and Seychelles, while District 411B comprised Uganda and Tanzania.

• In 2003-2004, Lion Rajinder Pape Sembi became the first District Governor of 411A, and Lion Polly Karimari Ndyarugahi of 411B.

Further Division:

• District 411B split again into District 411B (Uganda) and District 411C (Tanzania) in 2018-2019.

Present:

• Lions Clubs continue to play an active role in service, aiming for growth and excellence. Long live Lion members. We Serve.

Summary:

• Formation: Nairobi Host Club in 1958.

• Expansion: First Uganda club in 1959; Tanzania club in 1962.

• Growth: Inclusion of Ethiopia and Seychelles.

• Division: Formation of Districts 411A and 411B in early 2000s, further division into 411B (Uganda) and 411C (Tanzania) in 2018-2019.

• Ongoing Service: Continued active role and commitment to service.